U.S. State Department extended his condolences over the passing of Patriarch Emeritus Nasrallah Boutros Sfeir, hailing him as a brave man.

"On behalf of Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo and the American people, we were saddened by the news of the passing of His Beatitude Cardinal Patriarch Emeritus Nasrallah Boutros Sfeir," read a statement issued by the department spokesperson, Morgan Ortagus.

"He was a courageous leader against tyranny and oppression and a champion for the idea of a sovereign and independent Lebanon. His leadership and bravery, during some of Lebanon’s most trying times, shaped the course of Lebanon’s recent history."

"We offer our condolences to all the Lebanese people for the loss of such a profoundly national as well as spiritual leader. The United States will continue to stand with Lebanon in support of these ideals embodied by Cardinal Sfeir," the statement concluded.